The process for dismounting a microwave from the wall will vary depending on how it was mounted to the wall. Here is a general overview of the process:
1. Unplug the microwave and turn off the power at the circuit breaker.
2. Remove any items that are below the microwave.
3. If the microwave is mounted with screws, remove them with a screwdriver. If the microwave is mounted using toggle bolts, pull the wings of the toggle bolt to remove them.
4. Gently rock the microwave to break it lose from the wall and pull it away from the wall.
5. If necessary, use a putty knife to remove any adhesive from the wall.
6. To protect the wall from the microwave, place a towel or similar cloth around the microwave before moving it.
7. Slowly and carefully lift the microwave from the wall and move it to its new location.
How are microwaves attached to the wall?
Attaching a microwave to the wall varies based on the particular microwave model. Most microwaves require a mounting bracket or plate to be placed on the wall with bolts that screw into the wall studs.
The microwave is then attached to the mounting plate with screws provided in the package. It is important to use the right length screws depending on the wall the microwave is being attached to. Where the wall is covered with drywall, installation requires drilling into the wall studs to ensure the microwave is stable.
If the microwave is being attached to a tiled wall, special anchors need to be used and tiled around the area. Although professional installation might be recommended, most microwaves can be safely installed by using the instructions provided and taking the time for proper installation.
How do you remove a microwave from a built-in cabinet?
When removing a microwave from a built-in cabinet, there are a few steps to take. First, unplug the appliance from the outlet and disconnect the wall vent, if applicable. Then, remove any fasteners connecting the microwave to the cabinet.
This can include screws, staples, or tape. Be sure to use the correct type of screwdriver. After the fasteners are removed, inspect the cabinet and interior to determine how the microwave is held in place.
If the microwave is connected to a bracket, you must unscrew the bracket and pull the appliance away from the bracket. If no bracket is evident, then use a flat-head screwdriver to pry open the cabinet a bit in the corner closest to the release tabs.
Push the release tabs, while continuing to pry. The cabinet may pull away from the wall slightly as you press the release tabs. Once both tabs are pressed, pull the microwave toward you until it comes out of the cabinet.
Make sure to keep your back straight and be mindful of your hands and arms when lifting. Place it on the counter or a nearby surface.
Is it hard to remove over-the-range microwave?
Removing an over-the-range microwave can be a tricky job that requires a few steps to complete properly. First, you should unplug the unit or disconnect the power at the circuit breaker or fuse box. Next, you will need to unscrew or disconnect any screws or bolts that hold the microwave in place.
You may also need to take out the vent and ductwork to access the mounting screws. Make sure to note the position of the mounting brackets before taking them off so you can re-install them correctly.
Once all of the mounting screws are removed, carefully lift the microwave off the mounting brackets and move it away from the wall, being sure not to scratch or damage the walls or cabinets. Then you can disconnect the electrical wiring, if applicable, and disconnect any remaining screws, bolts, hangars, or other mounting pieces.
Finally, it’s a good idea to clean up the area before you put in a new appliance. With careful preparation and planning, removing an over-the-range microwave can be done in a safe and efficient manner.
How do you remove a GE wall mounted microwave?
Removing a GE wall mounted microwave is a fairly straightforward process, though it is recommended that two people are present for assistance. First, unplug the unit and shut off the circuit breaker to the microwave.
Ensure the appliance is completely cool before proceeding. Then, remove the microwave’s grill or vent cover and look at the mounting bracket connected to the wall. Locate and unscrew the mounting screws, and carefully lower the microwave from the wall.
Once the unit is on the counter or floor, you can disconnect all of the wiring from the wall studs and the microwave before you move it out of the room. Finally, remove the mounting bracket from the wall and check for any remaining fasteners, screws or other components.
Be sure to keep all of the parts in a safe place for use when you install your new microwave.
Do microwaves come with mounting brackets?
It depends on the model of microwave you purchase. Many models come with a mounting template designed for the installation into cabinetry, however the mounting brackets are typically not included. To properly mount your microwave you may need to purchase a mounting bracket and use it in combination with the template.
Depending on the specific model of microwave, the brackets and screws may vary. It is important to read the manufacturer’s instructions before attempting the installation to determine what hardware and tools are necessary.
If you are unsure of what hardware is needed, it is recommended to consult with a professional installer.
Do you need an electrician to install a microwave?
Yes, it is recommended to hire an electrician to install a microwave. Depending on the type of microwave and the type of connection that is available, an electrician may be required to install the appliance correctly and safely.
An electrician can correctly install the power outlet required for the microwave, check and confirm the power connections are correct and safe, and ensure all wiring is done safely. If a recirculating vent is required, an electrician can also ensure the exhaust venting is installed correctly and safely.
Installing a microwave is not a simple job and should not be performed by a novice. Hiring an electrician with the experience and knowledge to do the job properly can help ensure the appliance is installed safely and functions properly.
Can you remove a built-in microwave?
Yes, it is possible to remove a built-in microwave. Before you start, it is important to make sure you disconnect any electricity or gas that may be connected to the unit. This can be done by unplugging the power cord and shutting off any gas valves connected to the unit.
If the microwave is built into the wall or cabinet, you will need to carefully remove and discard the cabinetry and framing that surrounds the unit. Once the unit is exposed, you can unscrew and disconnect the vent hose, drain hose, and power cord, and carefully lift the oven out of the space.
Finally, you can dispose of the oven in your trash or take it to a recycling center.
How much does it cost to remove and replace a microwave?
The cost of removing and replacing a microwave can vary greatly depending on the type and size of the microwave, the complexity of the installation, the availability of the parts, and the labor costs associated with the job.
Generally speaking, a standard over-the-range microwave will cost somewhere between $150 and $300 for removal and replacement. This cost typically includes the price of the new microwave, the labor costs associated with the installation, and any necessary parts or materials required to complete the job.
If you’re replacing a countertop or built-in microwave, the costs can be much higher. These types of microwaves require more complex installations and often need electrical wiring, additional framing, and countertop modifications to be completed.
Depending on the project, the total price can rise up to $500 or more. In some cases, a professional may charge up to $1,000 for the project.
Why you shouldn’t take apart a microwave?
It is not recommended that you take apart a microwave because, although microwaves may appear to be simple, complex components within them could cause serious problems if you attempt to disassemble them yourself.
The internal components contain high voltages, which can cause electric shocks that can hurt you. Additionally, there are dangerous chemicals, such as PCBs and capacitors, that can become volatile when exposed to the open air, leading to fires and explosions.
Moreover, microwaves are complex machines with many intricate connections and electrical pathways. It is not just a matter of unscrewing a few screws and pieces coming apart. There is an internal safety switch which will shut off power to the unit if it is ever tampered with and the danger of getting shocked while attempting to unscrew the unit is high.
Therefore, it is safest to not attempt to take apart a microwave on your own and to instead have any repairs done by a professional.
Are built-in microwaves hard wired or plug in?
Built-in microwaves are typically hard wired. This means that they must be connected directly to the electrical wiring of your home, and cannot simply be plugged into a wall outlet. For safety reasons, it is important that any installation of a hard-wired built-in microwave be done by a qualified, licensed electrician.
Depending on the installation, it is also possible that the electrician will need to run additional wiring to the space where the microwave is being installed.
Do wall mounted microwaves need to be vented?
Yes, wall mounted microwaves must typically be vented. This is required for proper air circulation and to ensure that the heat, moisture, and cooking vapors are properly dissipated and don’t remain in the kitchen.
When cooking with a wall mounted microwave, the heat and other vapors build up and must be properly removed from the kitchen by means of ventilation. It’s important to use the appropriate venting equipment on a wall mounted microwave in order to ensure its safe and effective operation.
The right kind of ventilation should be able to take the heat, moisture, and smoke away from the kitchen and can be installed directly on the wall or in an exterior wall. It’s always best to consult a professional handyman to make sure that the ventilation is properly installed and vented.
What is needed to mount a microwave?
In order to mount a microwave, you will need a few tools and hardware items. You will need a drill, some drill bits and screws, an adjustable level, a stud finder, a Philips head screwdriver, and a drill attachment for screws.
Additionally, you will need to make sure the mounting space is secure and free of any debris. You should also move the microwave to a safe location before beginning the installation.
Once you have the necessary tools and materials gathered, begin by finding the wall studs with a stud finder. Make sure to note the locations of the studs, as this will ensure the points at which you will secure the microwave.
Next, use the level to draw horizontal marks on the wall that indicate the base placement. Use a drill bit to create screw holes, then use the drill attachment to secure the screws into the wall studs.
Continue by following the instructions in the microwave’s manual to install the bracket. Attach the mounting bracket using the screws and a Philips head screwdriver. Finally, check all of the connections and screws to make sure everything is secure and the microwave is level before using it.
Do all over the range microwaves vent out the top?
No, not all over the range microwaves are designed to vent out the top. Depending on your design and installation preferences, there are over the range microwaves that can be configured to vent out the sides or to the bottom.
Over the range microwaves that are designed to vent out the top typically have an adjustable vent hood located near the top of the microwave. This hood can be positioned to vent out the back of the microwave or the front.
Side-venting microwaves typically have a rear wall-mounted vent built into the side panel that is connected to the exhaust hose. Bottom venting microwaves have the vent placed at the bottom of the appliance.
They require additional venting systems such as a ductless hood, an inline blower, or a wall vent.
Does anyone vent the microwave to outside?
In most cases, it is not necessary to vent a microwave oven to the outside. Although depending on the make and model of your microwave oven, some manufacturers do recommend that you vent the oven to the outside.
If this is the case with your oven, it is usually done by attaching the vent kit that came with your oven. This typically consists of a straight venting tube and elbow pipe. If you are unsure of whether your microwave needs to be vented to the outside, be sure to check the instructions in the owner’s manual.
Regardless of whether you need to vent your microwave oven or not, it is generally a good idea to keep the area around the oven clean and free from obstruction. This will help to ensure that the flow of air is not limited, which can cause the oven to overheat or not run efficiently.